In a daring move targeting Russia's strategic industries, the Ukrainian government has carried out one of its deepest strikes by utilizing a locally-made ultralight sport plane as an explosive drone. The aircraft, a modified Aeroprakt A-22, was equipped with robotic controls and packed with explosives to carry out the highly effective attack on the Alabuga Special Economic Zone industrial campus located 600 miles from the Ukrainian border.

Video footage of the emergency response following the Tuesday attack reveals the extent of the damage caused by the drone. The use of an A-22 as an explosive drone strongly suggests that this new drone type will likely be deployed in future attacks. Not only is the A-22 easily convertible into a drone, but it is also affordable, costing just $90,000 per unit.

The implications of this development become clear when considering the cost comparison: an A-22-based drone, capable of traveling 600 miles through Russian air defenses with high accuracy, costs slightly more than a single American-made Javelin anti-tank missile. The scalability of the A-22 drone production further supports the possibility of future attacks, as stated by the Ukrainian Conflict Intelligence Team.

The A-22, typically used by middle-class hobby pilots for leisurely flights, touts its control, safety, and durability. Its metal structures have proven resistance to the external environment, while its controls remain effective even at slow speeds. The simplicity and reliability of the A-22 make it a suitable candidate for drone conversion.

Although details about the drone conversion process remain unknown, previous examples, such as the U.S. Air Force's utilization of a Cessna 206 light plane, provide insights. Autonomous controls, including computer-driven servos, were installed to operate all necessary functions, mimicking the piloting actions of a human while using sensors for situational awareness.

Unlike conventional drones designed to return to base, the A-22 drone operates as a slow cruise missile, carrying a significant explosive payload over an approximate range of 600 miles. In terms of cost-efficiency, an A-22 drone, including autonomous controls and explosives, proves more affordable than Ukraine's locally-made Neptune cruise missile or the Storm Shadow cruise missiles received from the United Kingdom.

However, it is crucial to note that while an A-22 drone presents an economic advantage, its low speed of maximum 126 miles per hour leaves it vulnerable to Russian air defenses. Nevertheless, the vastness of Russia's interior provides ample opportunities for these low-cost sport-plane drones to maneuver and carry out strikes successfully. As a result, concerns over their effectiveness remain high.

The Ukrainian government's successful conversion of the A-22 into a highly capable drone introduces a new dynamic in their conflict with Russia. With the potential for further attacks, it is clear that innovation and adaptability will continue to shape the unconventional warfare tactics in this ongoing conflict.